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Macron condemns protest violence, promises probe into police tactics
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French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the "unbridled" violence that erupted on the margins of a national day of protest, saying the riots were unjustifiable. In a televised address, he said "we all feel anger and shame" and urged that demonstrators with "legitimate demands" not be confused with those who destroyed, smashed, and looted. Macron promised that those responsible would face the full force of the law, while also pledging a thorough and fully transparent investigation into police and security force conduct that many consider too harsh. Nationwide violence on Saturday included looting, arson, and street clashes with police. The protests, against high living costs and problems in the education system, drew about 550,000 people according to the government, while organizers claimed around 800,000.
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French President Emmanuel Macron is seen on a television screen delivering a speech from the Élysée Palace. Source: LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP
French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned the violence that erupted on the margins of the protests. He distinguished demonstrators with "legitimate demands" from looters and announced an investigation into police operations.
French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned the "unbridled" violence that occurred on the margins of a national day of protest. The riots could not be justified by anything, Macron said on Sunday evening, referring to the violent excesses of the previous day.
"We all feel anger and shame this evening." At the same time, the president called for demonstrators with "legitimate demands" not to be confused with those "who destroyed, smashed, and looted."
"It is unbearable to see the streets of our cities so devastated," Macron said in a televised address. Those responsible would be pursued with the full force of the law. The president also assured that the actions of police and security forces—widely regarded as too harsh—would be thoroughly investigated. "There will be full transparency."
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Massive violence broke out across France on Saturday. Shops were looted, buildings and vehicles went up in flames, and demonstrators engaged in fierce street battles with police.
The violence occurred on the margins of a day of protest against high living costs and grievances in the education system. According to government figures, around 550,000 people took part in the actions nationwide, while organizers spoke of approximately 800,000 demonstrators.
AFP/doli
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Macron condemns violence after French protests turn to rioting, looting